Since 2008, Peace Corps Volunteers in over 16 communities throughout Paraguay, have participated in Ahecha Paraguay, two month long photography workshops with youth. Ahecha Paraguay seeks to promote arts, culture, and individual expression and personal development within youth throughout Paraguay. Volunteers and youth participate in two ways; through the two month long workshops and the end of the year national photo tour.

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At the end of the year, 47 photographs were chosen from the 16 participating communities as finalists to be showcased in a tour throughout the capital, Asunción. The exhibition provides an opportunity for Paraguayans to glimpse another part of their country as well as showcasing youth creativity, imagination and art and providing youth with an opportunity to raise pride in their work. One of the locations is the Terminal de Omnibus de Asunción, the most trafficked location in the nation.

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Unfortunately Christina Prado died of a viral infection in February 27, 2008. She was 36. Wrote RPCV Beth/Blake McGrew: "Chris was an adventurous, talented, and versatile young woman who brought joy to those around her. Wherever she went, sunshine flowed from her very being; her laughter, excitement, and “determined optimism” were contagious. Chris touched so many lives, and she is already greatly missed. May she rest in peace, and may we all find comfort in our memories of/with her." (this announcement was posted on the [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gezuar/ online mailing list for 1995-1997 Albanian RPCVS] ). Posted here by Robert Nagle 1995-1997.

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Youth participants have been invited to visit the opening ceremony at the Terminal to share their experiences, explain their motivation, and view their artwork on public display. Unfortunately, participating youth do not have resources to pay for travel, overnight stay, and food expenses. Through a generous grant from Centro Cultural Americano Paraguayo meals have been covered. However, we are still seeking funds for the transportation and over-night housing. The costs for transportation and housing for 40 participants and their chaperones is $926.27.

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Through the assistance of this partnership grant, this will be an opportunity for some participants to leave their communities for the first time. Furthermore, the will have the opportunity to experience their artwork on public display. For more information, please visit cocumu.blogspot.com or ahechaparaguay.blogspot.com. To take a look at the photos, please visit www.flickr.com/ahechaparaguay.

Unfortunately Christina Prado died of a viral infection in February 27, 2008. She was 36. Wrote RPCV Beth/Blake McGrew: "Chris was an adventurous, talented, and versatile young woman who brought joy to those around her. Wherever she went, sunshine flowed from her very being; her laughter, excitement, and “determined optimism” were contagious. Chris touched so many lives, and she is already greatly missed. May she rest in peace, and may we all find comfort in our memories of/with her." (this announcement was posted on the online mailing list for 1995-1997 Albanian RPCVS ). Posted here by Robert Nagle 1995-1997.